Malaysia exports grew 8.7% to RM 173.72 Billion in Q1 2012, trade surplus stood at RM 29.78 Billion

Malaysia recorded a trade surplus of RM29.78bil for the first quarter of 2012.

The International Trade and Industry Ministry (MITI) said the country's month-on-month exports continued to rise by 8.7% and imports increased by 10.9%.

In the latest Malaysia External Trade Statistics, it said on a quarterly basis, exports in the first quarter of 2012 was 4.4% higher than the first quarter of 2011 while imports expanded by 6.9%.

"The expansion in trade was supported by strong demand from major markets within Asean, pick-up in consumer demand in the US and the increase in China's production needs," MITI said in a statement on Wednesday.

MITI said total trade during the first quarter of 2012 was valued at RM317.66bil compared with RM300.95bil a year ago, and exports increased to RM173.72bil while imports reached RM143.94bil.

Source: www.thestar.com.my